No, this bridge isn't blue, as you might be led to expect. Rather, its name derives from the painted wooden bridge that formerly existed in its place. The current edifice, constructed of brick and sandstone, was built in anticipation of the 1883 World Exposition and makes a statement of wealth and permanence. Sculptures on the bridge refer to the city's seafaring history and include sea life, ships, and crowns.

This bustling plaza in modern-day Amsterdam was the city's birthplace, where the river Amstel was dammed, the Southern Sea contained, and the town founded. These days, the place is a congregating point for tourists and locals, a place to hang out in the sun and enjoy the local ambience. In the immediate vicinity of the Dam are the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). You can also shop or dine in the vicinity and arrange for a brief outing, via horse-drawn cart.

Commemorating gay men and women persecuted in the past and looking towards the promise of respect and inclusion, this monument settles into the city and is both eminently visible and unobtrusive. Comprised of three triangles that coalesce into a single triangular entity, the monument features a street level shape, a raised one, and a pink granite component that reaches out into the water and is often laid with flowers of remembrance. Connecting with other generations, the three triangles also point towards the Anne Frank House, the COC (a gay rights organization), and the National War Monument. The pink triangle is particularly relevant because it was the symbol with which gay citizens were branded during the Nazi persecution.

For centuries, a bridge has existed in this location on the Amstel. Local lore claims that it was originally built to unite the homes of two sisters who lived on opposite shores. Nevertheless, the small, wooden footbridge is an interesting feature and becomes quite lovely at night, when it's lit in the darkness. The bridge also has a drawbridge function, allowing boats to pass through when opened by hand by the bridge master.

Crowned by a graceful, circa-1606 spire, this tower was built in 1512 as an element in the city's defense system and rests right on the water. It was integral to town security during medieval days and helped protect shipbuilding facilities. The tower, which has a distinctive tilt and features several clock faces, now functions as part of Amsterdam's waterworks. It also served as artistic fodder for Rembrandt and can be spotted in a number of his works.